Bill > HB2014

This bill amends Oklahoma's Legal Services Revolving Fund law to expand legal representation for indigent persons by explicitly including residential tenants in forcible entry and detainer (eviction) actions. The bill defines "indigent" as individuals with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and allows the Attorney General to allocate funds to nonprofit legal organizations that meet specific criteria, such as being tax-exempt, focused on providing legal assistance, and having a board primarily comprised of licensed attorneys. The funds will continue to prioritize family law services, with a new emphasis on helping tenants facing eviction, while maintaining restrictions on using funds for certain types of legal services like criminal proceedings, abortion-related cases, or challenging legislative districts. The legislation requires recipient organizations to maintain detailed financial records, undergo annual audits, and be accountable for how they use the allocated funds. The bill will take effect on November 1, 2025, providing a clear timeline for implementation of these expanded legal service provisions.

Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2014&Session=2600